Yes, it is true. Microsoft announced a contest to promote their new idea – Microsoft Marketplace (SkyMarket). Till the end of December you can submit even 5 applications to the Microsoft Marketplace for free. Of course these apps have to be built for Windows Mobile devices. This way Microsoft wants to compete with Apple Store. Are they able to beat it?

Apple users vs Microsoft Mobile users

Numbers show that Microsoft stands a good chance to compete against Apple. According to August App Store Market research the number of iPhone and iTouch users comes up to around 45 million. Microsoft, on their Marketplace website mentions in one of the video clips that they have around 40 million of potential users.

Apple tools vs Microsoft tools

In order to develop an iPhone application you need to have Macintosh OS, all developer tools downloaded (the cheapest license to develop the applications for iPhone costs 99$). Of course, without iPhone/iTouch device it is difficult to develop a truly good application. There are emulators available but this is not the same of course.
To develop Microsoft Apps for Mobile Devices you can go two ways. You can use Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 Standard Edition (around 300$ per one license) or you can develop Windows Mobile apps without Visual Studio.
Together with Microsoft SDK for Mobile Devices you get an emulator. Microsoft currently offers several programs for small companies and individuals where you can obtain an free copy of Visual Studio Professional Edition for free.

Apple devices vs Microsoft devices

We all know iPhone and iTouch. These gadgets are absolutely great. The design is awesome, the simplicity is phenomenal. On the other hand, it has to face other powerful competitors such as Microsoft’s HTC Touch Diamond and Samsung’s Omnia.  Moreover, SkyMarket Store will be integrated with the latest Windows Mobile OS 6.5.

Microsoft does the same old thing – copies with proud

Since the very beginning of Microsoft we can notice one simple business rule which is a driving force behind Microsoft’s success – “Wait, look and copy with proud”. App Store proved to be a  great and very profitable venture now. After finding the proper niche, it has created a huge market which generates enormous profits. Now, Microsoft is copying this business model and uses their marketing power to beat the competition. I think that in one year time Microsoft will gain at least 30% of the market share taken from Apple!

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